To the Memory of Henry Z Steinway S C P G for Gerhard and Ana L F Special thanks to Timothy Blair Veronica Goodrich James Jordan and Bruce Stevens
Every spring Miss Yuriko’s students present their annual piano recital at the famous Steinway Hall Now children May 1st is our special day only one week away It is very important to concentrate on your music and Practice Practice Practice Ana stared out the tall window in Miss Yuriko’s studio It was still gently raining For the first time Ana noticed tiny green leaves on all the trees and a fluffy nest with blue eggs in it Ana looked forward to putting on her red boots and going puddle hopping She was not looking forward to the Spring Recital
Ana it’s your turn to play said Miss Yuriko Startled from her daydream Ana wished that she could hide Instead she took her place at the grand piano and started to play Oh what a disaster she forgot the notes She forgot to count the rhythm She forgot everything Ana could not play her music The room became very quiet All the children looked down at the floor Miss Yuriko’s glasses slid to the end of her nose as she slowly closed her music folder Ana you must practice every day Concentrate on your music There is no time to waste
On her way home Ana stomped and splashed in every puddle Her face still felt hot with shame How could she forget her music How could she forget to count the rhythm How could she forget everything
